[This is the text from the flyer we mail to academic departments - the originals are flamingo-pink!]

Summer 2009
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS IN ASTRONOMY
SOUTHEASTERN ASSOCIATION FOR RESEARCH IN ASTRONOMY

Florida Institute of Technology, East Tennessee State University,
Florida International University, Valdosta State University, Ball State University, Agnes Scott College, University of Alabama, Valparaiso University, Butler University

The Southeastern Association for Research in Astronomy expects to host in the summer of 2009 a Research Experiences for Undergraduates program funded by a partnership between the National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program and the Department of Defense (DoD) ASSURE (Awards to Stimulate and Support Undergraduate Research Experiences) program.

Each SARA summer intern will work closely with a faculty mentor at one of the six SARA universities. In addition to observing with the SARA 0.9-m telescope at Kitt Peak in Arizona, the summer activities will include a number of social events and excursions, as well as workshops on observational techniques, data reduction, current events in astronomy, proposal writing, job opportunities in astronomy and scientific ethics. Participants will present research results at a final workshop near the end of summer and the proceedings will be published.

TO APPLY Visit www.astro.fit.edu/sara-reu for full instructions and to complete the online application form. Information required for this form includes your name, address, E-mail address, contact phone numbers, a 250-500 word essay describing your research interests and career goals, names and contact information for two faculty members who will submit letters of reference on your behalf (via email), your GPA, and your science and math course grades. In addition, you must submit via email a scanned copy of your academic transcript. Women, minorities, disabled persons and veterans are especially encouraged to apply. Applications that are not complete by the deadline may not be considered.

All application materials must be received by Friday February 6, 2009. Appointments will be announced beginning March 2, 2009.

Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a degree program leading to a baccalaureate or associate’s degree, and must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions. A major in astronomy is not required, but a demonstrated interest and adequate math/science background are essential. Eight- to 10-week appointments will typically begin the week of May 25, 2008, and extended to the first week of August, depending on the participant’s academic calendar and particular SARA host site. Each participant will receive a stipend of $3,600 for the summer. In addition, all necessary lodging and travel expenses during the summer will be paid by SARA, including up to $500 round-trip travel between the student’s home and the SARA host institution.

RESEARCH AREAS

• Minor Planets and Comets
• Binary Stars:
  • Wide Binaries
  • Massive Stars - Wind Interactions
  • Cataclysmic Variables (observation and theory)
• Variable Stars
  • Mira & Long-Period Variables
  • Delta Scuti & Other Main Sequence Varaibles
  • White Dwarf and Subdwarf Variables
• Stellar Activity and Evolution
• Hot Stars: OB and White Dwarf Stellar Atmospheres
• Galactic Morphology, Dynamics, and Evolution
• Multiwavelength Extragalactic Astronomy
• Radio Astronomy of Interacting Galaxies
• Active Galaxies: Jets, Blazars and Quasars

SEND INQUIRIES AND APPLICATIONS TO
Dr. Matt A. Wood
SARA REU Program Director
Department of Physics and Space Sciences
Florida Institute of Technology
150 W. University Blvd.
Melbourne, FL 32901-6975
Phone: (321) 674-7207
Fax: (321) 674-7482
E-mail: wood 'at' fit.edu